The Science of Soreness
The Science of Soreness You pushed hard in your workout, and now, 24-48 hours later, you’re feeling the aftermath. Every movement reminds you of those extra squats or that final set of push-ups. This familiar discomfort has a name: Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), and understanding it is key to optimizing your recovery and progress.The Science of Soreness DOMS is that stiff, achy feeling that peaks about two days after unfamiliar or intense exercise. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not caused by lactic acid buildup (which clears within hours of exercise) but by microscopic damage to muscle fibers and the subsequent inflammation and repair process. This damage might sound alarming, but it’s actually a normal part of building stronger muscles.The Science of Sorenessyou’re sore, should you push through with active recovery or embrace complete rest? The answer isn’t simple, but science provides clear guidance for making the right choice. What…